Casualties unknown

Forced Landing After Engine Sputter and Fuel Pressure Loss (N8549C)

Cloverdale, CA, US

On June 23, 1994, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N8549C) operated by Alfredo Matteoni was involved in an aviation accident near Cloverdale, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR AN UNKNOWN REASON. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot executed a forced landing in a river bed after the engine sputtered and fuel pressure dropped. Subsequent examination of the engine found no anomalies and it ran normally for 15 minutes.

Accident Summary

A pilot reported experiencing engine trouble while cruising, leading to a forced landing in a river bed. The incident occurred without any further details on location or aircraft type provided by the source.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that while cruising at 5,500 feet, the engine sputtered a couple of times. Observing the fuel pressure gauge, the pilot noted decreasing pressure. After activating the fuel pump, the pilot switched fuel tanks from the left main to the right main, but the engine did not respond. Subsequently, the pilot shut off all systems and executed a forced landing in a river bed.

Examination Results

An examination of the engine confirmed electrical and fuel continuity. No visible signs of detonation were observed in the engine cylinders, and no obstructions were found in the fuel lines. The engine was started and operated for 15 minutes at three different power combinations without any issues.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Jun 1994 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Cloverdale, CA?

A pilot executed a forced landing in a river bed after the engine sputtered and fuel pressure dropped. Subsequent examination of the engine found no anomalies and it ran normally for 15 minutes.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Jun 1994 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N8549C, operated by Alfredo Matteoni, at Cloverdale, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR AN UNKNOWN REASON.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01579. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.